Cotchery was a college star at N.C. State, so it would be a bit of a homecoming if he signs.

Turning 32 in June, Cotchery is ideally suited for the No. 3 receiver role on a contender. The problem in Carolina is that there are not two wide receivers better than him on the roster.

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The expectation in Pittsburgh has been that Cotchery will end up re-signing after leading the team with 10 touchdown receptions last season. Perhaps he's simply setting his market value before bringing the offer back to the Steelers.

UPDATE: Cotchery left his meeting with Carolina on Tuesday without a contract, The Charlotte Observer reports. The 10-year veteran wide receiver will choose between the Panthers and Steelers.